Golden State Warriors star Buddy Hield hails Curry’s influence after win over Utah Jazz

Oska21 hours ago

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The Golden State Warriors secured their second win of the 2024-25 NBA season, thanks to a standout performance from new signing Buddy Hield. After the game, Hield shared how Stephen Curry’s leadership has made his transition to the Warriors smooth and effective.

Hield has quickly adapted to Steve Kerr’s system, helping the team start the season 2-0. In the post-game interview, Hield credited the team’s unity and mindset. “Everyone has the right intent and preaches togetherness and sacrifice,” he said. “That starts with the leaders—Steph, Draymond, and Coach Kerr. Everyone puts the team first.”

Hield also praised Curry’s influence. “Steph is one of the most humble superstars I’ve ever been around. The way he carries himself on and off the court is inspiring. I just watch him and try to follow his example. Being here has changed how I see basketball compared to my past teams,” Hield said.

Against the Utah Jazz, Hield stepped up when Curry struggled with his shooting. Hield finished as the game’s top scorer with 27 points, shooting 71%, along with 4 rebounds and 6 assists. If he continues playing this way, the Warriors might not feel Klay Thompson’s absence as much as expected.

Curry, despite still finding his rhythm after a preseason finger injury, remains a key figure for the Warriors. In the season opener against the Trail Blazers, he scored 17 points, adding 9 rebounds, 10 assists, and 2 steals. Against the Jazz, Curry had 20 points but shot just 35%. He was rested in the fourth quarter of both games as the Warriors cruised to victory.

Former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal also praised Curry for his humility and unique impact on the game. “Steph doesn’t look like a typical NBA superstar—he’s not built like LeBron—but he’s doing things we’ve never seen before,” Shaq said on Unapologetically Angel with Angel Reese.

While Curry’s playmaking has been sharp, his shooting could become a concern if it doesn’t improve. Still, the Warriors’ +77-point differential across their first two games shows they are in great shape to begin the season.